National

Kolkata's Durga Puja Pandals: Reflecting The Now And The Forever

In this photo series we visit, among others, the AK Block pandal, which is based on the theme of rainwater conservation.

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Shri Shri Saraswati and Kali Mata Mandir Parishad. | Photo: Sandipan Chatterjee/Outlook

This year was no exception, with themes ranging from rainwater conservation to the RG Kar medical college rape and murder incident and an installation of a human spine model to remind people of the current times.

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Kestopur "Masterda Smriti Sangha" | Photo: Sandipan Chatterjee/Outlook
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The organisers of Kestopur "Masterda Smriti Sangha" on VIP Road installed a 70ft-long backbone across the roof of the Durga Puja pandal. They refuted claims that their design has anything to do with the RG Kar incident and the protests that followed.

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Shri Shri Saraswati and Kali Mata Mandir Parishad. | Photo: Sandipan Chatterjee/Outlook
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Kolkata's Durga puja pandals are supposedly the largest public art exhibition in the world. Each year, the pandals reflect themes that vary from the divine to current affairs.

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AK Block Durgapuja Salt Lake | Photo: Sandipan Chatterjee/Outlook
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In this photo series we visit the AK Block pandal, which is based on the theme of rainwater conservation.

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AK Block Durgapuja Salt Lake | Photo: Sandipan Chatterjee/Outlook
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The unconventional instrumentation gives a natural sonic vibe which creates a different charm for the pandal. It shows several utensils like plastic and metal placed in a pit that collects water droplets falling from the roof, creating the sound of the traditional dhak.

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AK Block Durgapuja Salt Lake | Photo: Sandipan Chatterjee/Outlook
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In another, the theme of the pandal was Resonance, depicting a connection between God and people.

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AK Block Durgapuja Salt Lake | Photo: Sandipan Chatterjee/Outlook
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The puja pandal themes tackle abstract and thought-provoking concepts open to interpretation by their viewers, making them no less modernist than any art installation.

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Kendua Shanti Sangha at Patuli | Photo: Sandipan Chatterjee/Outlook
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As visitors walk through these lively spaces, they are not just observers; they are part of a broader conversation about art, society, and the environment.

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Kendua Shanti Sangha at Patuli | Photo: Sandipan Chatterjee/Outlook
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Each installation invites visitors to engage with intricate stories, encouraging them to explore the connections between tradition and modern issues.

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Kendua Shanti Sangha at Patuli | Photo: Sandipan Chatterjee/Outlook
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